The Bitter End Was Sweet

The January 20th K.U.S. Bitter End performance was more like the Friday night church of Rock/Soul gospel designed to dispel sluggishness and disconnection. Although this multi-cultural band is independent they marched to the beat of Medley’s drums. If the touch of Art Vanterpool’s base and Quigley’s saxophone wasn’t sexy enough Kwame lead singing the mission and mantra of KUS, sweating through new songs from the recent EP releases Little Lady and Setting Sun and even a sizzling Stevie Wonder cover. This band is a ‘must see’ live…Kwame and the Uptown Shakedown deliver contagious electricity and original music co-written by guitarist and songwriter Justin Wilcox. The performance included extended music family member Katie Collins on back up vocals - and yes, this sister had Soul.

What makes them likable beyond the peace-meets-deep-funk-and-live-Rock being clearly in their favor? KUS couldn't resist the impulse to take a position of leadership to bridge the gap between piracy and music being accessible to music lovers by offering free downloads before their official iTunes launch. As they approached the end of their free downloads week in January 2012 they became aware of New York Peace week, an extension of Dr. Martin Luther King's birthday and mission to create awareness and camaraderie, and extended their free downloads for another week.

Perpetuating peace, good music and good times seem to be virtues of this group. I would definitely see them again.